BSc (Hons) Geography with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- F801
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subjects required)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subjects required)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Delve into an exploration of the dynamic and ever-changing world we live in – from volcanoes and earthquakes to climate change, pollution and biodiversity loss.
Our BSc Geography degree with a Placement Year covers both physical and human geography, focusing on the interactions between the natural environment and human society. You’ll have the opportunity to gain invaluable real-world industry experience to give your career a head start.
At UEA, you’ll learn specialist theory in areas such as earth surface processes, meteorology, hydrology, population ecology and environmental economics. You’ll learn from world-leading researchers, and develop your skills across a range of specialisms – from geographical information systems to environmental policymaking, biogeography, international development, climate change, energy transitions and natural hazards. You’ll also take part in exciting national and international fieldwork trips to places such as Devon, Scotland, the Lake District and Spain.
With lots of flexibility in module choice, you’ll learn key geographical concepts and explore today’s global environmental challenges, studying how our dynamic planet works. You’ll take part in seminars and team projects with other students, developing specialist analysis skills, and mastering geographical software. You’ll develop highly valued transferable skills, including critical thinking, data analysis, fieldwork, spatial visualisation, science communication, and social theories of change.
Choice is at the heart of our BSc Geography degree. In classrooms, and on field courses, you'll develop a broad understanding of geographical issues, theories and how to apply them. In year one, you'll learn about the most pressing geographical, environmental and sustainability problems, whilst in years two and four, you'll choose from a range of specialisms including climate science, environmental policy, Earth resources, river catchment management, urban geography, biodiversity conservation, energy systems and environmental economics. You’ll enhance your studies and employability by spending year three on an industrial work placement, giving you hands-on experience.
Most importantly, you’ll graduate with the skills to make a difference. The ability to work across the social, human and physical sciences is in high demand in both private and public sector graduate jobs, where you'll be able to provide real-world solutions to today’s challenges. Check out Nikil’s story, who is now working as a Policy Officer for DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs), having graduated with a BSc in Geography from UEA.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
Your Placement Year will ensure you graduate with relevant work experience. Not only will you see first-hand how your chosen field operates, you’ll boost your chances of progressing within that sector through valuable contacts and insight.
Your studies will benefit too as theory is transformed into reality – under the real pressures of time and money.
You’ll be expected to seek your own work placement. In the first two weeks of your second year, you’ll write a CV and apply to a range of companies. Not only will this ensure that you work within your preferred field, but it'll also provide you with the essential job-hunting skills you’ll require after graduation. We’ll offer our guidance and support while you're identifying and negotiating placement opportunities.
During this year, you’ll be supported by an industrial supervisor and a mentor from the university. You and your industrial supervisor will feed back during the placement to ensure that it’s progressing well, and your UEA mentor will visit you during the year.
Please note that we cannot guarantee you a work placement as this decision rests with potential employers.
If you’re unable to secure a work placement by the end of your second year, you’ll have the option to transfer onto the equivalent degree programme without a Placement Year.
Accreditations
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Geographical Society (with IBG). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in geographical knowledge and skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of the world beyond higher education. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
Study and Modules
Structure
This four-year course covers a broad range of topics in geography. In your first year you’ll build a foundation of essential knowledge and skills whilst being inspired to broaden your horizons about the world around you. You’ll then have more flexibility in your second and fourth years. Your third year will be spent on a placement. The course culminates in an independent research project. There are opportunities to participate in field courses in all three taught years of your degree at UEA, from Devon to the Lake District and Scotland to Spain.
Your first year is designed to give you a broad understanding of the challenges facing contemporary geographers and expand your understanding of ‘what is Geography?’. This is underpinned by an introduction to fundamental research techniques, the methods geographers use to analyse and understand the world, and this is consolidated with a residential field course.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll be taught by leading geographers and environmental scientists, and award-winning teachers. The degree is modular with a standard pattern of three modules per semester. Most modules include one or two lectures a week with a practical or seminar session where you’ll deepen your understanding. In these, you’ll work in small groups to solve problems, discuss and debate real world issues, use digital tools, collect data and conduct experiments in the laboratory and get out in the field. Beyond contact hours, you’ll work independently to support your learning through reading and assessments.
Year one is mostly compulsory modules with lectures, practicals, seminars and field trips to develop your skills and knowledge ready for year two and four module choices. You’ll choose from one of two modules in the spring term. The first year includes a compulsory (funded) week-long residential field course to Devon in the Spring Break, so you can put your learning into practice and develop your Geography community.
Assessment
We use varied assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. The balance of assessment by coursework and exam depends on the modules you choose across all the taught years of your degree. Coursework assessment methods may include essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations, posters and blogs. We use ‘formative’ assessment in each module to provide feedback before submitting your ‘summative’ assessment. All module credits contribute equally towards your mark for the year.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll gain valuable technical expertise by choosing a research skills module such as GIS Skills, and craft your degree to your interests by choosing physical and human geography modules from a range of options including topics such as earth surface processes, population ecology and management, climate change science and policy, global health and development and global tectonics with field course options within the UK.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In year two, you’ll craft your degree to your interests, but these must include one skills module, one physical geography module and one human geography module. Optional UK-based field courses are offered over Easter.
Assessment
As for year one, modules will be assessed on coursework, or by a mix of coursework, project and exam results, depending on the modules you choose. Throughout the assessment process, you’ll be given feedback to help you develop. We encourage you to discuss your feedback with your tutors and academic advisor. Years two and four are weighted 40:60 to determine your final mark.
Structure
You’ll spend your third year on a work placement in a commercial, policy or charitable organisation, lasting from 9 to 14 months, gaining relevant experience and developing your skills and knowledge. We have established links throughout the UK and beyond, and we’ll help you in identifying and competing for appropriate positions.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
Year three is your placement year. You'll learn-by-doing in your choice of placement. You'll be supported by an academic mentor to reflect on the skills, knowledge and experience you develop during placement.
Assessment
Your placement year is assessed on a pass-fail basis by reflecting on a project portfolio of the skills and knowledge you’ve developed and does not count into your final mark.
Structure
In your fourth year, you’ll spend a substantial amount of time on your Independent Project, which accounts for a third of your final year assessment. This is your opportunity to put everything you’ve learnt throughout your degree into practice, and to specialise in a topic that really fascinates you, under the supervision of a world-class expert.
There are also further optional modules to study, including topics such as geophysical hazards, biodiversity, conservation, the carbon cycle, climate change, urban futures, land and water resources, natural resources, and environmental economics. Field courses in your fourth year to places such as Spain will allow you to explore a landscape and environment in detail.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 40, Max Credits: 80)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In year four, one-third of your time is for your independent research project, where you’ll work with a world-leading expert on a topic of your choice. You'll develop project management skills along with in-depth knowledge of your chosen topic. You’ll also choose four module, tailored to your interests and career trajectory, involving a range of teaching styles. Field courses such as the trip to Spain, run in the summer before the academic year.
Assessment
In year four, the focus on assessment will continue, supported by feedback which we encourage you to discuss with your tutors or academic advisor. Years two and four are weighted 40:60 to determine your final mark.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Contextual offer: BBC including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Countryside Management or Animal Management.
Contextual offer: DMM in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Countryside Management or Animal Management.
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Diploma: DD plus grade B at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR DD in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus grade B at A level.
Contextual offer: DD plus grade C at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR DD in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability, Forensic & Criminal Investigation or Countryside Management plus grade C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus grade BB at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR D in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Forensic & Criminal Investigation plus grade BB at A level. The Extended Certificate in Countryside Management is not accepted, however, we will consider the Foundation Diploma in Countryside Management with D alongside A level grade BB.
Contextual offer: D plus grade BC at A level including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics OR D in Applied Science, Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Forensic & Criminal Investigation plus grade BC at A level. The Extended Certificate in Countryside Management is not accepted, however, we will consider the Foundation Diploma in Countryside Management with D alongside A level grade BC.
NOTE: For Animal Management we accept Extended Diploma only as content not acceptable for other BTEC suites.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.Access to HE Diploma
Pass the Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3 including 12 credits in either Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a B in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We accept: Science and Design, Surveying & Planning for Construction.
Foundation Year options:
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Environmental Sciences with a Foundation Year.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in either Geography, Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Scottish Highers
AAABB including grade A Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language and Mathematics at minimum grade 4 or grade C.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
A levels
ABB including Geography, Geology, Mathematics, Economics, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science or Physics.
Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. Critical Thinking & General Studies are not accepted.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall including HL5 in either Geography, Mathematics (Applications and Interpretation or Analysis and Approaches), Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Recent Study
We would prefer you to be able to demonstrate evidence of recent academic study within 5 years of the start of the course. If your last qualification will have been completed more than 5 years ago by the time the course starts, please contact Admissions.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Field courses are available every year of your course. We fully subsidise the cost of your first-year residential field course. Field courses in the second and third year are 50% subsidised and carry a cost of around £250-£900, depending on destination and duration. These costs cover your accommodation, meals and transport.
You can find details for individual field courses in the module information.
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your placement year. There may be extra costs related to items such as travel and accommodation during your placement year, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Employability is embedded in our modules, helping you develop your career aspirations and skills throughout your course. We work closely with UEA’s Careers Service to help you meet employers (including alumni), explore career options, speak to industry mentors, and apply for internships, volunteering, and rewarding graduate jobs.
As a Geography graduate, you could go on to a very wide range of careers, joining our previous graduates, who enjoy a high rate of employment. You could work for national and international agencies, private sector or governments in the areas of environmental and resource management, climate change, economic and social development, planning, or policy making.
Right now, there’s high demand for graduates to work in climate change, energy systems, and land or water resource management. Or you might choose to pursue a higher degree, such as an MSc or PhD.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Sustainability officer
- Environmental consultant
- Waste and recycling manager
- GIS technician
- Cartographer
- Transport planner
Discover more on our Careers webpages.